Meet Russ Cook: The Fearless Runner Who Conquered Africa

Russ Cook, also known as Hardest Geezer, is making headlines for his extraordinary achievements in endurance sports. The English athlete, originally from Worthing, West Sussex, recently completed a groundbreaking run across Africa, covering the entire length of the continent from South to North. Starting on April 22, 2023, at Cape Agulhas in South Africa and finishing on April 7, 2024, at Ras Angela in Tunisia, Cook traversed 16,000 km through 16 countries.

During this perilous journey, he encountered severe challenges, including armed robbery and life-threatening situations. Cook’s efforts were not just a test of physical endurance but also a major charitable initiative. He raised over £1 million for the Running Charity and Sandblast, supporting vulnerable groups and the indigenous peoples of Africa.

Following his return, Cook barely had time to dust off his running shoes before he was back pounding the pavement. His adventures continued with a notable morning run alongside the UK Prime Minister, an experience he humorously noted as a sharp change from his usual routine and something he will “enjoy telling the grandkids about”. He also completed the London Marathon, keeping his stride in high gear.

Most recently, Russ appeared on the podcast “The Diary of a CEO,” where he reveals the raw and untold stories behind his extreme adventures and personal life. This episode offers a unique opportunity to hear firsthand about the triumphs and trials of his remarkable journey. For anyone interested in the resilience of the human spirit and the power of a purpose-driven life, this podcast is a must-listen.